First Impressions

Right out of the box, the Nimbus 27 exudes quality. The design retains the classic Nimbus DNA while incorporating subtle modern updates. The first thing that stands out is the sheer amount of cushioning—this shoe doesn’t just look plush, it feels plush. Slipping them on, the step-in comfort is immediately noticeable, thanks to the generously padded collar and tongue. At approximately 305 grams (10.8 oz) for a men’s size 9 US, it’s not the lightest option, but considering the level of cushioning, the weight feels justified.

Key Specifications

• Type: Neutral, max-cushioned daily trainer
• Cushioning: FF BLAST+ ECO foam for a soft yet stable ride
• Upper: Breathable engineered mesh with a refined fit for enhanced comfort
• Midsole: FF BLAST+ ECO cushioning with PureGEL technology for impact absorption
• Midsole Density: Plush yet responsive for high-mileage comfort
• Flexibility: Mild rocker design for smoother transitions
• Outsole: Durable rubber with strategic traction zones for better grip
• Stack Heights: 43.5 mm (heel) / 35.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm
• Weight: Approx. 305 grams (10.8 oz) for men’s size 9 US
• Heel Counter: Secure and well-padded for additional stability
• Fit: True to size with a traditional ASICS toe box width
• Toe Box Height: Medium
• Cost: Varies by retailer; check ASICS’ official website for current pricing

Upper & Fit

ASICS has updated the engineered mesh upper to be softer and more accommodating than the previous version. The material feels premium, offering a secure yet flexible fit that allows some give for foot expansion during longer runs. The ventilation is solid, keeping the feet cool on warmer days, and the generous padding in the heel collar and tongue adds to the overall plush feel.

Fit-wise, the Nimbus 27 runs true to size, with a standard-width toe box that should work for most runners. However, those who prefer a wider toe box might find it a bit snug, especially on longer runs when the feet swell.

Midsole & Cushioning

The Nimbus 27 is all about comfort, and the FF BLAST+ ECO midsole delivers exactly that. This foam strikes a nice balance between softness and responsiveness, ensuring a well-cushioned yet relatively stable ride. The addition of PureGEL in the heel enhances shock absorption, making landings feel exceptionally smooth. While it doesn’t have the energetic bounce of some modern super foams, it provides a consistent and protective feel, ideal for long-distance running.

Ride & Performance

On the run, the Nimbus 27 delivers a plush, smooth ride that absorbs impact exceptionally well. The mild rocker geometry aids in forward motion, ensuring smooth transitions despite the generous stack height. This isn’t a shoe designed for speed, but for runners prioritizing comfort over tempo, it’s an excellent companion for long runs, easy days, and recovery efforts.

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

The Nimbus 27 is one of the most cushioned daily trainers available, but it is also among the heaviest. Compared to the Brooks Glycerin 21 or Saucony Triumph 21, it offers a higher stack height and a softer ride, making it better suited for runners prioritizing impact absorption. However, those looking for a lighter max-cushioned trainer with a more responsive feel may prefer the Glycerin 21.

Who Should Buy the Nimbus 27?

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is best suited for runners who prioritize comfort over speed. If you’re logging high mileage and need a shoe that provides a soft, protective ride, this is a great option. It’s ideal for:

Long, slow runs 

Recovery days 

Runners seeking a well-cushioned daily trainer 

All-day wear for those on their feet often

It is not the best option for:

Speed workouts or tempo runs 

Runners looking for a lightweight trainer 

Those who prefer a firmer ride with more ground feel

Final Verdict

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 remains one of the most reliable max-cushioned trainers on the market. With a plush midsole, improved upper, and smooth ride, it’s a fantastic choice for runners seeking maximum comfort. While it may not be the lightest or most energetic shoe available, it excels in what it’s designed for—delivering mile after mile of consistent, cushioned support.

Pros: 

Outstanding cushioning for long-distance comfort

Smooth, protective ride with PureGEL shock absorption 

Soft, breathable upper with a premium feel 

Durable outsole designed for longevity

Cons: 

Heavier than some competitors 

Not ideal for speedwork or fast-paced runs 

Premium price tag

Overall, if your priority is ultimate comfort and a forgiving ride for high-mileage training, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is a solid choice. It’s built to go the distance—comfortably.

The post ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Review: A Max-Cushioned Workhorse appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

Published: February 2025

First of all, thanks to ASICS for sending over a fresh pair of Novablast 5’s.  The Novablast 5 has a cultish following in the realm of daily trainers. Season 5 builds on its predecessor’s success, offering a well-balanced mix of cushioning, responsiveness, and versatility. Whether you’re an experienced runner or someone looking for a comfortable daily trainer, this model provides a smooth and energetic ride.

With refinements to its midsole, upper, and outsole, this version continues to cater to runners looking for a well-cushioned daily trainer that excels in comfort and responsiveness.

The Novablast is what you’d call a multi-purpose shoe. Good for long runs, while being decent for speed workouts.  Lightweight, without being race-shoe-light, and with a soft and responsive foam.  The Novablast ticks a lot of boxes and is a lot of fun.

We took these bad boys over 130km of easy running, track and threshold work. Below is out analysis.

Specs

• Type: Neutral, lightweight road shoe.
• Cushioning: Moderate level of soft foam underfoot.
• Upper: At least 75% of the shoe’s main upper material is made with recycled materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions.   Made using an Engineered jacquard mesh offering decent stretch, ventilation, and durability. 
• Midsole: FF BLAST MAX cushioning. Very soft feeling underfoot.
• Midsole density: A soft and bouncy ride.
• Flexibility:  Bends like shoes of old, as there is no carbon fibre.
• Outsole: AHAR LO rubber is a lower-hardness version of ASICS High Abrasion Resistant rubber covering the outsole for advanced durability.
• Stack heights: 41 mm (heel), 33 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8mm.
• Weight: 247 grams for men’s size 9 US.
• Heel width: Normal.
• Heel counter: Stiff. 75% length/height firm heel counter.
• Sizing: True to size.
• Toe Box width: Traditional Asics.
• Toe box height: Medium.
• Cost: $240 AUD at ASICS’ Australian website.

Against some rivals

Key Features and Performance

Revamped Midsole for a Springier Ride

The Novablast 5 is built with ASICS’ latest foam technology, providing a plush yet energetic feel. The midsole strikes a balance between softness and bounce, making it ideal for daily running. Whether you’re logging easy miles or picking up the pace for a tempo session, the shoe maintains a responsive and lively sensation without feeling too squishy underfoot.

Improved Upper for a Secure Fit

One of the noticeable upgrades in this model is the redesigned upper. Constructed from a lightweight, breathable mesh, it adapts to the shape of the foot while maintaining ventilation for added comfort. The refined lacing system and structured heel counter help keep the foot securely in place, reducing excess movement during runs.

Outsole Enhancements for Durability and Grip

The outsole of the Novablast 5 features strategically placed rubber sections to improve traction and extend the shoe’s lifespan. While designed for road running, it provides a confident grip on various surfaces.

PROS

• Excels across various running conditions.
• Suitable for both easy runs and more intense training sessions.
• The engineered jacquard mesh upper ensures a snug fit, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or hotspots during extended runs.
• Perfect for those who love a very soft ride.

CONS

• Shoe’s traction may be less effective on wet surfaces, suggesting caution during inclement weather.
• The midsole foam does lose a little bit of its bounce around the 250km mark.
• The Novablast 5 leans towards a softer feel, which might not suit runners who prefer a firmer, more responsive ride.

Considerations

While the Novablast 5 offers a balanced ride, runners seeking a firmer or more minimalist shoe might find it overly cushioned. Additionally, those who frequently run in wet conditions should be aware of the potential traction limitations.

To Buy or Not to Buy

Retailing at approximately $240 AUD at Asics Australia, the ASICS Novablast 5 presents a compelling option for runners desiring a versatile daily trainer that adeptly balances comfort and performance. It isn’t cheap, but it’s cheaper than many of it’s competitors.

Its enhancements over previous models make it a worthy consideration for those seeking a reliable companion for a variety of running endeavors. However, individuals with specific preferences for firmer cushioning or superior wet-surface traction might explore alternative models.

Note: This review is based on available information and user experiences as of February 2025. Individual preferences and experiences may vary.

The post ASICS Novablast 5 Review appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

Cushioning and Ride Quality

Both shoes provide plush cushioning, but Tarkine’s proprietary plush foam and rockered midsole geometry ensure an efficient ride that maximizes propulsion and smooth transitions. The 40mm heel with a 34mm forefoot gives runners a soft, yet supportive platform. Hoka Bondi also delivers a soft, stable ride, but Tarkine’s focus on endless mileage makes it stand out for runners who value long-term durability without compromising on comfort.

Upper Design and Comfort

While Hoka Bondi features a soft, breathable upper, Tarkine Autopilot pushes sustainability and innovation with its 70% recycled, waterproof engineered mesh upper. This not only delivers on comfort but also provides better weather protection and eco-friendliness, something Hoka Bondi doesn’t prioritize to the same extent.

Foot Shape and Fit

For runners who appreciate natural foot movement, Tarkine’s slightly wider toe box encourages natural toe splay, making it ideal for comfort over long distances. Hoka Bondi, while comfortable, doesn’t offer the same spaciousness, which can affect foot stability and toe comfort during extended runs.

Insole Comfort

Tarkine Autopilot includes a 5mm thick PU-based insole, providing an ultra-soft, plush feel underfoot. This adds a layer of comfort that enhances long runs, making the shoe feel like it molds to your foot with each stride. Hoka Bondi offers durability and softness but lacks the same plush insole construction, which can make a noticeable difference in underfoot comfort.

Sustainability and Innovation

One of the key advantages of Tarkine Autopilot over Hoka Bondi is its environmental impact. Tarkine’s focus on using recycled materials and its commitment to eco-friendly production practices set it apart as the shoe for eco-conscious runners. While Hoka Bondi is durable, it doesn’t match the same level of sustainability efforts.

Verdict

While the Hoka Bondi is undoubtedly a great shoe, the Tarkine Autopilot excels in providing a smoother, more efficient ride while addressing sustainability concerns. With its rockered midsole, wide toe box, and environmentally conscious design, Tarkine Autopilot offers superior long-term comfort and performance, making it a standout choice for runners who want more than just cushioning—they want innovation and sustainability.

The post Tarkine Autopilot vs. Hoka Bondi: A Road Runner’s Guide to Comfort, Support, and Sustainability appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

For years, I stuck with Nike, eagerly awaiting the release of the next big thing. Whether it was the latest Air Max or the revolutionary Flyknit, I was sold. But as I grew older, something started to shift. My values evolved, and I began to question what that swoosh really stood for. Was it just about performance and style, or was there more behind the scenes that I was choosing to ignore?

As I became more conscious of the impact my choices had on the world around me, I started to reevaluate my relationship with Nike. The brand that once represented everything I wanted to be no longer aligned with the person I was becoming. I wanted my purchases to reflect my values, to stand for something more than just sleek design and athletic prowess. That’s when I discovered Tarkine.

Tarkine is a brand with a purpose. Their commitment to sustainability and ethical production immediately caught my attention. The fact that they use eco-friendly materials and ensure fair labor practices throughout their supply chain resonated with me in a way that Nike’s mass-market appeal no longer could. I was particularly drawn to the Tarkine Autopilot, a shoe designed not just for performance but with a deeper meaning behind every stitch.

When comparing the Nike Invincible to the Tarkine Autopilot, the difference in comfort and performance becomes clear. The Nike Invincible is known for its responsive ZoomX foam, offering a cushioned ride, but the Tarkine Autopilot takes plushness to the next level. The Autopilot’s foam is incredibly soft yet supportive, cradling my foot with every step. This plushness doesn’t just feel luxurious—it actively reduces impact on my joints, making long runs more enjoyable and less taxing on my body.

The superior cushioning of the Tarkine Autopilot enhances your overall running experience, giving you that cloud-like feel with every stride, while also aligning with values of sustainability and thoughtful design.

The post Why I Ditched the Nike Invincible for the Tarkine Autopilot appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

Our small team here at Runner’s Tribe were lucky enough to grab a few pairs to put to the test.Specs

• Type: Stability road shoe.
• Cushioning: Moderate to maximal, with a focus on stability and support.
• Upper: Engineered mesh with strategic overlays for a supportive fit and breathability.
• Midsole: FlyteFoam Blast+ for lightweight cushioning, paired with the signature Gel technology for shock absorption.
• Midsole density: A balanced ride with a slightly firmer feel for stability.
• Flexibility: Moderate, with sufficient flexibility for a smooth transition.
• Outsole: HYBRID ASICSGRIP – provides better grip and more softness underfoot
• Stack heights: 40 mm (heel), 30 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 10mm.
• Weight: 305 grams for men’s size 9 US, 266 grams for women’s size 8 US.
• Heel width: Normal to Extra wide.
• Heel counter: Stiff.
• Sizing: True to size.
• Toe Box width: Traditional Asics.
• Toe box height: Medium.
• Cost: $280 AUD at ASICS’ Australian website.

Against some rivals

Gel-Kayano 31 Vs. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23: Both shoes are top choices for stability, but the Kayano 31 offers a slightly lighter weight and a more balanced ride, thanks to the FlyteFoam Blast+. The Brooks Adrenaline, however, has a more pronounced arch support and a firmer heel counter.

Gel-Kayano 31 Vs. Saucony Guide 16: The Saucony Guide 16 is lighter and has a lower drop, making it a bit more responsive for faster-paced runs. However, the Gel-Kayano 31 provides more cushioning and a smoother ride, especially over long distances.

Cool things about the ASICS Gel-Kayano 31

FlyteFoam Blast+: This midsole foam offers a responsive yet cushioned feel, perfect for those long runs where you need a bit more energy return without sacrificing stability. The foam is lightweight and durable, ensuring that your shoes last through many miles.

DUOMAX Support System: The DUOMAX technology in the midsole provides enhanced support and stability, especially for overpronators. This system ensures that your foot stays aligned with each stride, reducing the risk of injury.

3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION: This feature adapts to the different compression rates of men and women, providing a more customized fit and improving overall comfort. It’s particularly noticeable in the heel and midfoot areas, where stability is crucial.

Neutral Ponderings

Firm Heel Counter: The Gel-Kayano 31 comes with a firm heel counter, which might not be ideal for runners who prefer a more flexible and less structured heel. However, for those needing extra structure around the heel cup, this feature is a major plus.

To buy or not to buy

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 31 retails for $280 AUD at ASICS’ Australian store, which is a reasonable price for a high-end stability shoe. It’s a top contender for runners who need reliable support and cushioning, making it a solid choice for both everyday training and long-distance runs. If you’re an overpronator looking for a durable and comfortable shoe, the Gel-Kayano 31 is definitely worth considering.

 

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Here are some essential tips to help you choose your next pair of running shoes:

Understand Your Foot Type

Start by scheduling a running assessment with us. We can identify whether you have a neutral, overpronation, or underpronation (supination) foot type. Based on this, we’ll recommend the best type of running shoe and cushioning tailored to your needs. Our 3D technology analyzes your gait and form on our treadmill, ensuring a precise evaluation.

Lean on Expert Advice

Take your time and be discerning when selecting running shoes. Consult experts at your local running shoe store; they can guide you to the right pair based on your specific needs and running style. Their knowledge can make a significant difference in finding shoes that match your requirements.

Try on Shoes Later in the Day

To ensure the best fit, try on shoes later in the day when your feet are more likely to be swollen. Also, consider wearing the socks you plan to run in, as different socks can affect the fit and feel of the shoes.

Podiatrist-Recommended Running Shoes

• Hoka One One: Known for their thick, cushioned soles, Hoka One One shoes offer exceptional shock absorption and support. Their range includes everything from minimalistic designs to models with maximum cushioning, catering to various preferences.
• Tarkine: Celebrated for their plush foam technology and late-stage metarocker, Tarkine shoes provide a supportive and cushioned ride. The PU insert adds extra support, ensuring a soft landing and exceptional comfort with every step.
• Brooks: Brooks is dedicated to providing a comfortable and stable running experience. Their shoes come in a variety of widths and sizes, accommodating different foot types and offering solid arch support.
  

When to Replace Your Running Shoes

Regardless of quality, all running shoes need replacement after accumulating 300-500 miles of use. It’s essential to replace them when they show signs of wear. If you experience foot pain or have specific foot issues, it’s advisable to have your feet measured and assessed by a podiatrist. They can recommend the best shoe brands and models suited to your individual needs.

The post Podiatrists Approve Running Shoe : A Guide to Comfort, Performance, and Injury Prevention appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

1. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080V13

The New Balance 1080V13 is our top pick for long-distance comfort. Its high-volume midsole ensures cushioning for everyday runs and marathon efforts alike. The latest version, 1080V13, is notably softer and more responsive than its predecessor, the 1080V12. The blown rubber outsole absorbs impacts, enhancing overall ride comfort. Though the elastic knit upper from previous versions is gone, the fit remains true-to-size with a spacious toe box, and various widths are available for a customized fit.

2. Asics Nimbus 25

Redesigned from the ground up, the Asics Nimbus 25 surpasses its predecessor, the Nimbus 24, in comfort. Its thick midsole with stack heights of 41.5mm (rear) and 31.5mm (forefoot) provides balanced cushioning. Removing the visible Gel from the heel and replacing it with foam adds neutrality. The forefoot’s increased thickness and the midsole’s rocker profile make transitions smoother. The upper, though warm in hot weather, fits true-to-size, with optional wide widths available.

3. Nike Invincible 3

The Nike Invincible 3, with its massive PEBA foam midsole (ZoomX), offers exceptional cushioning. The updates include a textile layer on the midsole and side scoops, increasing firmness while maintaining comfort. Ideal for easy runs and casual wear, the Invincible 3 has a spacious, comfortable upper, though it lacks optional widths.

4. Asics Superblast

The Asics Superblast provides marathon-level comfort without a plate, thanks to a firmer foam layer over the outsole and a rocker-shaped forefoot. Despite tall stack heights (45.5mm rear, 37.5mm front), it feels peppy. The upper fits snugly and true-to-size.

5. Tarkine Autopilot

Tarkine shoes are celebrated for their plush foam technology and late-stage metarocker, providing a supportive and cushioned ride. With a PU insert for added support and a soft landing, these shoes ensure exceptional comfort with every step. The upper is crafted from 75% recycled mesh, emphasizing sustainability while maintaining durability.

6. Nike Vaporfly 3

The Nike Vaporfly 3 excels in combining long-distance comfort with a responsive feel. Its Carbon plate and rocker-shaped forefoot make it suitable for marathons. The lightweight, breathable upper fits snugly, though the roomy forefoot may affect the connection with the midsole.

7. Saucony Endorphin Pro 3

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 offers a comfortable, fast ride at a slightly lower price than the Nike Vaporfly Next%. Its Carbon plate and PEBA foam midsole ensure a soft, springy ride, perfect for marathons. The redesigned upper, with a vented tongue and ventilated mesh, is the most breathable of the year.

8. New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V3

The New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V3 is a lightweight trainer that balances cushioning and weight. Its Fuelcell foam midsole provides high ride comfort, making it an excellent choice for 10K runs without feeling harsh.

These eight running shoes offer varying levels of comfort to cater to different preferences and running needs, ensuring that every runner can find their perfect fit.

The post Finding the Perfect Fit: Top Comfortable Running Shoes of 2024 appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

Among the top recommended shoes for nurses in 2024, the Tarkine Autopilot stands out as the best option. Here’s why:

Unparalleled Comfort and Support

The Tarkine Autopilot is recognized for offering exceptional comfort and support, which are crucial for nurses who often work demanding 12-hour shifts. These shoes are designed with a PU insert that provides added support, ensuring that your feet remain comfortable throughout the day. This feature helps to alleviate foot pain and prevent fatigue, allowing nurses to stay focused and efficient during their shifts.

Superior Slip Resistance

In a busy hospital environment, where spills and wet floors are common, having shoes with excellent slip resistance is essential. The Tarkine Autopilot excels in this area, providing a slip-resistant outsole that offers excellent traction on various surfaces. This reduces the risk of slips and falls, ensuring that nurses can move swiftly and safely as they attend to their patients.

Sustainable and Durable Design

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in all industries, including healthcare. The Tarkine Autopilot features an upper made from 75% recycled mesh, making it an eco-friendly choice without compromising on durability. This sustainable design ensures that the shoes are not only good for the environment but also built to last, even under the rigorous demands of a nurse’s daily duties.

Ideal for Long Shifts

Nurses often work long hours, and the Tarkine Autopilot is specifically designed to handle these extended periods of wear. The combination of its supportive PU insert, slip-resistant outsole, and durable construction makes these shoes the perfect companion for long shifts. Nurses can rely on the Tarkine Autopilot to provide the necessary support and comfort, helping them maintain their energy and focus throughout their day.

In summary, the Tarkine Autopilot is the best shoe for nurses due to its unparalleled comfort, superior slip resistance, sustainable and durable design, and suitability for long shifts. These features make it an indispensable part of a nurse’s uniform, ensuring that healthcare professionals can perform their duties with ease and confidence. Investing in a pair of Tarkine Autopilot shoes is an investment in your health, well-being, and job performance. Make your day—and someone else’s—by choosing the best footwear for the job.

The post Why Tarkine Autopilot is the Best Shoe for Nurses appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

The primary cause of Achilles tendinitis is repetitive stress on the tendon, which leads to microtrauma and inflammation. This stress can result from training errors such as excessive mileage, high-intensity workouts, hill running, or running on hard or uneven surfaces. Inappropriate footwear can also exacerbate the condition.

In the early stages of Achilles tendinitis, reducing training intensity can help alleviate the irritation and pain. While complete rest is not always necessary, modifying your routine to reduce strain on the tendon is generally advised. Footwear is also a critical factor in managing the condition. Shoes with a higher heel stack or a temporary heel raise can lessen the pressure on the Achilles tendon. Research has shown that rocker bottom shoes, designed with a curved sole to propel the foot forward, may offer relief by decreasing the load on the tendon.

Key Features to Look for in Shoes for Achilles Tendinitis

Finding the best shoes for Achilles tendinitis is crucial for managing and preventing pain. Here are some key features to consider when shopping for shoes to alleviate symptoms:

• Heel Support: Look for well-cushioned heels to absorb shock and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon. A slight heel lift of about half an inch can also help take pressure off the tendon.
• Arch Support: Ensure the shoes provide adequate arch support to keep your foot in a neutral position, which helps reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
• Flexibility: The shoes should be flexible enough to allow natural foot movement but not so flexible that they lack stability.
• Fit: Finding shoes that fit well is essential to avoid any unnecessary pressure on the Achilles tendon.

  

Footwear Options for Managing Achilles Tendinitis

Here are some footwear options that may help manage Achilles tendinitis:

Tarkine Autopilot

• Advantages: Features a Meta Rocker Design that reduces Achilles tendon pressure, a higher heel drop (40mm heel drop and 34mm forefoot drop) for significant relief, and plush foam technology for added cushioning. It also supports limited ankle movement, beneficial for those with restricted dorsiflexion.
• Considerations: Offers a comprehensive approach to managing Achilles tendinitis with comfort and support tailored to enhance gait efficiency.

MBT

• Advantages: Rocker bottom design reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon, deep toe box accommodates most feet, and built-in orthotics support flatter feet.
• Considerations: The rocker bottom may take some getting used to, and the built-in orthotics may need replacement for better support.

Hoka One One

• Advantages: Rocker bottom technology aids in forward propulsion and extra cushioning at the heel and toe-off phases.
• Considerations: While popular for their comfort, some users find the heel cushioning can place additional pressure on the Achilles tendon.

In conclusion, while Achilles tendinitis can be a painful setback, the right footwear can make a significant difference. Whether you opt for Tarkine Autopilot, MBT, or Hoka One One these shoes offer various features designed to reduce tendon strain and improve comfort, helping you stay active and pain-free.

The post Achilles Tendinitis: Understanding and Finding the Best Shoes appeared first on Runner's Tribe.

A shoe built for heavenly mile after mile of plushness, the Autopilot is Tarkine’s first ever high-stack road shoe. It is in direct competition with giants such as the ASICS Novablast, Nike Invincible, HOKA Clifton/Bondi and New Balance More.

Below is our review, after 400km of road running bliss.

 Specs

• Type: Maximalist road shoe.
• Cushioning: Maximal, the midsole foam is plush and bouncy.
• Upper:  High quality mesh.  Reinforced with overlays over the ends of the toes, and a well structured heel counter.
• Midsole: ‘Plush Foam Tech’ – which feels like a next generation EVA type formula.
• Midsole density:  A soft yet responsive ride.
• Flexibility: Moderate.
• Outsole: Strategically placed rubber under high tractions areas.

• Stack heights: 40mm heel, 34mm forefoot.
• Drop: 6mm.
• Weight: 319 grams for men’s size 11 US, 260 grams for women’s size 8US, 303 grams for men’s size US 10. See comparison table below.
• Heel width: Standard.
• Heel counter: Structured 3/4 height heel counter.

• Sizing: We feel they are true to size, but if you are for example, sometimes a 10 and sometimes a 10.5, buy the 10.  As if anything, they size a few mm large.
• Toe Box width: Slightly wider than average, without being over the top.
• Toe box height: Slightly more roomy than average. The men’s are D widths and women’s are B shoe. They do not come in E widths.
• Cost: $230 AUD at Tarkine Australia’s website.

Against some rivals

• Note: We class high stack as having a heel stack of 35mm or higher.

Autopilot Vs. Nike Invincible: Both are every day road running shoes and both are classed as maximalist. The invincible has a huge following, mainly due to being a Nike shoe. The Invincible has incredibly soft foam that is borderline too soft, it is a hard shoe to run fast in, it feels sloppy and is very heavy.  The Autopilot is a bit lighter, and likewise has soft foam. The foam on the Autopilot is more responsive however.

• • Winner = Autopilot

Autopilot Vs Asics Novablast:  The Novablast is an incredibly popular running shoe.  It is lighter than the Autopilot and therefore a bit faster. The trade-off is that the foam on the Novablast tends to go flat after 200km or so, while the foam on the Autopilot lasts for well over 700km.  The Autopilot feels more supportive and absorbs the load better. But the Novablast feels so light.

• • Winner:
    • For those who want a fast tempo shoe: Novablast
    • For those who want better cushioning and support, while still being able to cruise a decent tempo: Autopilot

Autopilot Vs HOKA Bondi:  The Bondi is one of the most famous high-stack road shoes in the world.  Both the Bondi and Autopilot have a a metarocker, but the Autopilot’s rocker is slightly more aggressive. The Autopilot has 1mm of extra foam in the heel and the forefoot. The Bondi is heavier with a more built up tongue and upper.  Both have similar heel counters. The Bondi comes is a lot more colour ranges.

• • Winner:
    • Autopilot, unless their current colourways do not work for you, we see no other reason to buy the Bondi over the Autopilot.

Cool things about the Autopilot

Plush Foam Tech: This little Australian company has created an amazing midsole foam that rivals, and in many cases exceeds, foams used by many of their billion dollar competitors. It’s soft, responsive and light. We can’t fault it.

Eco-Friendly:  Recycled upper and a committment to recycle the shoes post-use.  Tarkine are stepping up on environmental matters, it clearly sets them apart from all the other brands.

Running on Autopilot:  The rockered geometry combined with the plush foam, results in a very efficient ride.  You can truly just check out and run on Autopilot.

To buy or not to buy:

HOKA charge close to $290 for their shoes now, at $230 the Autopilot offers much better value.  The Autopilot is $30 cheaper than the Nike Invincible ($260 AUD) and the same price as the Asics Novablast ($230).

Value for money is spot on, the ride has nailed it.  Perhaps it is time to move from the legacy old school brands to Tarkine.

The post Tarkine Autopilot Running Shoe Review appeared first on Runner's Tribe.